UAE Advance Cargo Manifest implementation- Operational Guidelines

As part of the UAE's ongoing efforts to enhance supply chain security, strengthen maritime cargo safety, and support smooth and efficient trade operations, the National Advance Information Center (NAIC) continues to implement the Maritime Pre-load Cargo Information (MPCI) program for all cargo destined for, transiting through, or transshipping via the UAE.

Based on the latest communication from NAIC, the mandatory MPCI filing requirement remains in effect from 1st Oct 2026. However, to provide industry stakeholders additional time to improve operational readiness, data quality, and compliance processes, certain enforcement measures under the "No Manifest, No Load" policy will continue to be applied in a phased manner.

Current Operational Measures

During this interim period:

• NAIC will continue issuing Acceptance (ACT) responses for compliant submissions.
• Enforcement responses such as Request for Information (RFI) and Do Not Load (DNL) notifications will be introduced gradually through a phased implementation approach. Customers will be informed in advance before activation.
• Shipments submitted during this period are expected to be approved for loading, and customers should not experience shipment shutouts or cargo being Retained on Board (ROB) due to the current situation in the region.
• Cases of non-compliance will initially be addressed through formal communications and warning notices as part of the compliance process.
• The same approach will apply where vessel routes are amended or where it is subsequently identified that cargo is destined for, transiting through, or transshipping via the UAE.
• Customers are expected to continue complying with all UAE Advance Manifest regulations and make every reasonable effort to ensure timely and accurate submissions.

Customers may receive warning notifications from Maersk/NAIC in the following scenarios:

For Import, FROB, and Transshipment Cargo Delivered into UAE

• Shipping Instructions are not submitted within the required timeline, specifically at least 33 hours prior to vessel arrival at the Compliance Load Port.
• Submitted information is incomplete, inaccurate, or contains data quality errors.

Additional Requirement for UAE Imports delivery

• MPCI codes must be complete, accurate, and validated prior to submission.
• Submission of an MPCI code is mandatory only for Forwarders, NVOCCs, and SCAC customers. Customers outside these categories are not required to submit an MPCI code.
• We have observed instances of incorrect or invalid MPCI codes being submitted during the Shipping Instruction (SI) submission process. This may result in compliance issues, shipment delays, or additional verification at cargo delivery. Customers are therefore advised to verify and submit only valid MPCI codes to avoid potential disruptions.

Customer Action Required

We strongly encourage all customers to:

• Review and strengthen internal submission processes.
• Ensure Shipping Instructions are submitted within the required timelines.
• Improve the accuracy and completeness of shipment data.
• Validate MPCI information before submission.
• Prepare operationally for the future activation of RFI and DNL enforcement responses.

We expect all customers to continue working towards full compliance with MPCI filing requirements to support secure cargo movements and uninterrupted trade through UAE ports.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.